Sandstone Estates

Sandstone Cherry Steam Festival 2026

Thursday 12 – Saturday 14 November

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Sandstone Estates

Sandstone Estates is a working commercial farm in South Africa’s Eastern Free State and home to one of the world’s most significant private heritage collections, including an operational 2 ft narrow gauge railway. Set beneath the Maluti Mountains along the Caledon River, the estate brings steam, military, agricultural, and motor history back to life – preserved, restored, and operated within a living modern agricultural landscape.

The property has been farmed since the mid-19th century, whilst the establishment of the heritage collection began on the property in 1996. The Sandstone Steam Railway opened in 1999, and Sandstone has since hosted regular festivals to showcase these working collections, including the Great 100 and 400 Working, and Stars of Sandstone.

Stories From Sandstone
Photo Credit Yolandi Schreuder Bedford RL Military TruckGeneral NewsMilitary VehiclesBedford RL
October 13, 2026

Bedford RL

The Bedford RL was the British military's main medium lorry (truck), built by Bedford in the UK, from the mid-1950s until the late 1960s. It superseded the Bedford QL, and…
Coach 26AccommodationGeneral NewsOld style accommodation at Sandstone
September 29, 2026

Old style accommodation at Sandstone

Although the Sandstone Steam Railway was born in 1999, the original plans were not for narrow gauge but for operation on the Bloemfontein to Bethlehem 3’6’ line via a Transnet…
The QF 3.7 after its restoration and painting in the correct Olive DrabAviationMilitary VehiclesThe QF 3,7 AA Gun (Quick fire 3,7 inch) Britain’s primary heavy anti-aircraft gun of WW2
September 22, 2026

The QF 3,7 AA Gun (Quick fire 3,7 inch) Britain’s primary heavy anti-aircraft gun of WW2

The QF 3.7 after its restoration and painting in the correct Olive Drab The 3.7-Inch QF AA in the Sandstone collection was Britain and the Commonwealth’s primary heavy Anti-Aircraft gun…

Walking Tours

Explore the estate on foot and discover Sandstone’s heritage collections up close.

Accommodation

Stay with us in the beautiful Eastern Free State and experience the charm and tranquillity of life at Sandstone.

Cherry Steam Festival 2026

Join us for heritage festivals and special gatherings that bring Sandstone’s historic collections to life.

Private Railway Experiences

Experience private rail journeys at Sandstone Estates, from classic railcars to scenic steam excursions through breathtaking countryside.

Film Locations

Sandstone Estates offers a versatile and visually striking filming location, featuring an operational 2ft narrow gauge steam railway, heritage buildings, vintage props, and dramatic natural landscapes.
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